Castle Dent - Land Information New Zealand

Transcription

Crown Pastoral Land
Tenure Review
Lease name : CASTLE DENT
Lease number : PO 196
Conservation Resources Report
- Part 1
As part of the process of Tenure Review, advice on significant inherent
values within the pastoral lease is provided by Department of
Conservation officials in the form of a Conservation Resources Report.
This report is the result of outdoor survey and inspection. It is a key piece
of information for the development of a preliminary consultation
document.
Note: Plans which form part of the Conservation Resources Report are
published separately.
These documents are all released under the Official information Act
1982.
August
05
RELEASED UNDER THE OFFICIAL INFORMATION ACT
DOC CONSERVATION RESOURCES REPORT
ON TENURE REVIEW OF CASTLE DENT
PASTORAL LEASE (P 196) UNDER PART 2 OF
THE PASTORAL LAND ACT 1998
docDM-372019 Castle Dent CRR Final - Info.doc
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART 1
1
INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................................. 1
1.1 Background ................................................................................................................................1
1.2 Ecological Setting ......................................................................................................................1
PART 2
2
INHERENT VALUES: DESCRIPTION OF CONSERVATION RESOURCES AND ASSESSMENT
OF SIGNIFICANCE .............................................................................................................................................. 2
2.1 Landscape...................................................................................................................................2
Methodology: .......................................................................................................................................2
2.1.1
(LU 1)- Top of the Run Block .........................................................................................3
2.1.2
(LU 2) Bottom of the Run Block .....................................................................................4
2.1.3
(LU 3) Beaumont River Faces .........................................................................................5
2.1.5
Significance of the Landscape ..........................................................................................8
2.2 Landforms, Geology and Soils...................................................................................................8
a) Landforms and Geology ...............................................................................................................8
b) Soils..............................................................................................................................................9
2.2.3
Significance of Landforms, Geology and Soils ................................................................9
2.3 Climate .......................................................................................................................................9
2.4 Vegetation ................................................................................................................................10
2.4.1
Run Block- Waipori River Catchment............................................................................10
2.4.2
Run Block- Beaumont River Catchment ........................................................................11
2.4.3
Northern Home Block ....................................................................................................11
2.4.4
Southern Home Block ....................................................................................................12
2.4.5
Problem Plants................................................................................................................12
2.4.6
Significance of Vegetation .............................................................................................13
2.5 Fauna ...........................................................................................................................................14
2.5.1
Invertebrate Fauna ..........................................................................................................14
2.5.2
Herpetofauna ..................................................................................................................17
2.5.3
Avifauna .........................................................................................................................17
2.5.4
Aquatic Fauna.................................................................................................................18
2.5.4.1 Significance of Aquatic Fauna........................................................................................19
2.6
Historic....................................................................................................................................19
2.7
Public Recreation ....................................................................................................................20
2.7.1
Physical Characteristics ..................................................................................................20
2.7.2
Legal Access...................................................................................................................20
2.7.3
Activities.........................................................................................................................21
PART 3
21
OTHER RELEVANT MATTERS & PLANS ..................................................................................................... 21
3.1 Consultation .............................................................................................................................21
3.2 Regional Policy Statements & Plans ........................................................................................23
3.3 District Plan..............................................................................................................................23
3.4 Conservation Management Strategy & Plans...........................................................................24
3.5 New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy .........................................................................................24
PART 4: MAPS ETC. ......................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1 Additional information.............................................................................................................26
4.1.2
Appendices ..........................................................................................................................28
4.2 Photographs..............................................................................................................................28
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DOC CONSERVATION RESOURCES REPORT ON TENURE REVIEW OF
CASTLE DENT (P 196) UNDER PART 2 OF THE PASTORAL LAND ACT
1998
PART 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1
Background
The lessee of the Castle Dent Pastoral Lease (the lease) has applied to the
Commissioner of Crown Lands for a review of the property’s pastoral lease tenure.
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease is leased by Castle Dent Limited. The 4172 ha property
comprises of two blocks separated by approximately 3 km by land of different tenure;
the Home Block (1550 ha) and the less intensively farmed Run Block (2622 ha). The
Home Block covers an elevation range from 125m asl. To 500m asl., with a
significant area below 300m asl. The Run Block lies over an elevation range of 480m
asl. – 972m asl. And much is over 750m asl. The homestead is located approximately
6 km from Lawrence, on the southern boundary of the Home Block.
1.2
Ecological Setting
The lease is within Otago’s eastern uplands and straddles two ecological districts, both
of which are in the Lawrence Ecological Region. The Run Block lies on the south
western boundary of the Waipori Ecological District (ED), the Home Block lies on the
northern boundary of the Lawrence ED.
The Waipori ED is approximately 192,000 ha and includes the peaty uplands of
Lammerlaw and Lammermoor Ranges and the surrounding hill country and Lake
Mahinerangi. It was surveyed as part of the Protected Natural Areas Programme
(PNAP) in the summers of 1990/91 and 1991/92 (Carter, 1994). An area partially
within the lease was identified as a Recommended Area for Protection (RAP). This
area, RAP 3: Lammerlaw Tops is 3700 ha of predominantly narrow-leaved snow
tussock (Chionochloa rigida) and associated inter-tussock communities. The relevant
extract from the Waipori PNA survey is attached as Appendix 1.
The 927 ha of RAP 3: Lammerlaw Tops within the lease was surrendered from the
lease in 1995 and has since been administered by the Department of Conservation
(DOC). It now forms part of the Te Papanui Conservation Park, a 20,882 ha area
administered by DOC pursuant to section 19 of the Conservation Act 1987.
The Lawrence ED covers approximately 97,500 ha and forms catchments for the
Clutha, Tuapeka and Waitahuna Rivers. It is predominantly developed, low, rolling,
dissected hill country and has not been surveyed under the PNA programme.
Remaining indigenous vegetation is mainly fire induced tussockland, scattered areas
of scrub and small forest remnants. Semi-intensive sheep and cattle farming occur in
the lower parts of the district, while exotic forest plantations occupy much of hilly
country throughout the ED.
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There are marginal strips along the Tuapeka River, and a section of Bowlers Creek,
which form the eastern and southern boundaries of the Home Block respectively (refer
Map 4.2.1). The western boundary of the Home Block adjoins two areas of scenic
reserve, administered by DOC pursuant to section 19 of the Reserves Act 1977 and
referred to in the Otago Conservation Management Strategy (Otago CMS) as “G44
153- Bowlers Creek Scenic Reserve”. Within the Home Block there is also a small
area of Crown land allocated to DOC pursuant to section 62 of the Conservation Act
1987, identified in the Otago CMS as “G44 137- Castle Dent”.
There is a marginal strip along the Beaumont River (which forms the western
boundary of the Run Block). The block’s entire northern and eastern boundaries
adjoin the Te Papanui Conservation Park. The southern boundary partially adjoins an
area of land administered by DOC pursuant to section 62 of the Conservation Act
1987, referred to in the Otago CMS as “H44 015- Glendhu Tussock Reserve”.
The tenure review inspection of the lease was conducted by a multi-disciplinary team
of 7 people from the 3-5 December 2002.
PART 2
INHERENT VALUES: DESCRIPTION OF CONSERVATION RESOURCES AND
ASSESSMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE
2.1
Landscape
Methodology:
Four landscape units (LU’s) have been identified on the lease (refer Map 4.2.2) with
boundaries being defined principally by changes in aspect and land cover. These are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Top of the Run Block (LU1)
Bottom of the Run Block (LU 2)
Beaumont River Faces (LU 3)
The Home Block (LU 4)
Each landscape unit is defined, and a description of landscape character in terms of
landform, land cover and land use is given. An assessment of landscape values is
made using the following criteria.
•
•
•
Naturalness –the level of naturalness of vegetation, and extent of human
intervention.
Legibility –the clarity of formative processes and how striking these physical
processes are.
Aesthetic values – these include the concepts of memorability and naturalness.
Aesthetic factors which can make a particular landscape vivid include
simplicity in landform, muted colours and fine textured ground cover.
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A description of visual values is given and an assessment of each landscape unit’s
vulnerability to change is made.
2.1.1
(LU 1)- Top of the Run Block
Description:
This unit encompasses the top portion of the expansive plateau rise which extends out
from the southern end of the Lammerlaw Range. These rangelands abut the
Lammermoors and combine to form a distinctive high altitude tableland typified by
smoothly curved topography and an intricate drainage pattern known as dendritic, that
resembles the branch pattern of a tree.
The unit is bounded in the north and east by the Te Papanui Conservation Park, while
its western limit is the Beaumont River. The southern boundary is less definitive but
generally follows a change in the drainage pattern that occurs close to spot height
778m.asl. Above this spot height the watercourses tend to be more superimposed
over the ground and follow an intricate tracery.
The landform is unvarying and is characterised by wide crested ridgelines that tend to
have a steeper eastern face that tilts by the way of a back slope towards the west. The
plateau rise gradually falls towards the south, with the overall altitudinal range being
just over 200m.
Similar to the landform, the vegetative cover is relatively homogenous with narrowleaved snow tussock being the dominant species, while the inter-tussock mix
comprises of prostrate snowberry and a mixture of native herbs. Finger bogs are the
common origin of the numerous watercourses. Weed species are notably absent.
Landscape Values:
The outstanding natural landscape values of this landscape unit are attributable to the
simplicity of the tall grasslands being overlaid on a subdued even landform. In
aesthetic terms, the unit conveys a strong sense of coherence due to the fine texture
and near monochromatic tonal range of the tall grasslands. Furthermore, this unit
forms an integral component of a more expansive tall grassland landscape that
extends over the whole of the Lammerlaws, with the distinctive features of these
grasslands being their naturalness, intactness and boundless qualities. The whole unit
makes an important contribution to a quintessential Otago high country landscape.
Visual Values:
The visual value is moderate owing to the subdued nature of the topography and lack
of grade.
Potential Vulnerability to Change:
The landscape unit’s natural characteristics are highly sensitive to change, with the
major threats being:
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Decline in the stature and density of the snow tussock through concentrated
grazing and burning.
Further subdivision fencing, which would lead to artificial fragmentation of
the existing even snow tussock cover.
Uncontrolled Off Road Vehicle’s (ORVs), especially through the fragile bogs
and on visible faces.
Wind distributed wilding pines.
Afforestation.
Dispersal of further gorse by stock.
Further earth disturbances, which might allow opportunist species such as
hawkweed too establish.
Unsympathetic siting, colour and finishes to “built” elements.
2.1.2
(LU 2) Bottom of the Run Block
Description:
This unit forms the lower portion of the plateau rise that extends out from the southern
end of the Lammerlaws. The unit’s northern boundary follows an approximate line
across from spot height 778m.asl. Te Papanui Conservation Park defines the eastern
boundary while the western limit follows the unmetalled public track that leads to the
southern end of the Lammerlaws. The south eastern corner adjoins the Glendhu
Tussock Reserve.
The subtle differences in the topography compared with LU1 include both the deeper
indentations of the complex gully system and the crests of the ridgelines having a
more convex trait. Occasionally the side slopes of these rounded landforms are
etched by depressions containing localized finger bogs. The drainage pattern is less
intricate than in the upper portion of the plateau rise with the larger watercourses
linking up to form one of the main tributaries of the Waipori River. The gradient over
this unit is shallow, descending approximately 150m between the high and low points.
upper high point and where the property bounds the conservation land in the south.
Compared with LU 1, the vegetation on LU 2 is more influenced by aspect and
pastoral management, with the sward of narrow-leaved snow tussock being less dense
and lower in stature and the inter-tussock composition containing a greater content of
introduced grasses, which are most evident on stock campsites and along the
unmetalled track margins. There is a short row of pine trees surrounding the
stockyards, however, this land unit is “clean” of wind-distributed wilding pines.
Numerous water races sidle around the side slopes. These were constructed to collect
water for use in the historic Waipori diggings.
Landscape Values:
The natural landscape values are high and are complementary both in landform and
land cover to LU 1. Although the tall grasslands have been slightly modified, by
farming the unit still retains an overall appearance of being intact. A distinctive
6
feature is the unvarying qualities of the tall grasslands which collectively with tussock
grasslands of similar condition on the adjoining properties, create an unending tract of
tall grasslands. The modifications associated with the farming operation are localized
and are fully anticipated within this pastoral context.
Visual Values:
The visual value is relatively lower than LU1 owing to the harsh line where the tall
grasslands change into the improved pasture west of the unmetalled track. This
results in visitors viewing “across” the tussock grasslands rather than “through” them.
This unit is highly sensitive to change, with threats including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Further subdivision fencing, which would lead to artificial fragmentation of
the existing even snow tussock cover.
Uncontrolled ORV’s, especially through the fragile bogs and visible faces.
Wind distributed wilding pines.
Afforestation.
Further earth disturbances, which would allow opportunist species such as
hawkweed to establish.
Unsympathetic siting, colour and finishes to “built” elements.
2.1.3
(LU 3) Beaumont River Faces
Description:
This unit incorporates the rounded crest of the ridge that forms the watershed between
the Beaumont and Waipori Rivers and the relatively steep-sided slopes overlooking
the Beaumont River. The unit’s northern boundary follows the access track to the
remains of several derelict huts while the Beaumont River forms the western
boundary. The southern portion of the unit is a block of hill country that falls
moderately towards the west. The side slopes are regularly dissected by narrow
gullies that tend to steepen before reaching the Beaumont River.
The Beaumont River winds around a series of interlocking steep spurs, with a section
of the river being contained within rocky walls for approximately 2 km. This gorge is
characterised by a sequence of plunge pools and reaches of white water. Many of the
side streams flowing into the Beaumont River have been captured by a substantial
water race that redirects the water towards the Waipori River.
Vegetation is strongly dictated by aspect and farm management. The rounded crest of
the ridgeline has been extensively converted into pasture, and snow tussock growth
being checked by periodic burning. This tract of improved pasture follows a wide
strip of land between the water race and the unmetalled track in the east. The
7
numerous bogs and wet flushes have been affected by periodic burning and stock
trampling.
Below the watercourse the mid slopes are clad in modified tall tussock, while the
lower slopes are covered in a mosaic of tall tussock and mixed shrublands. The
shrublands within the enclosed gorge are relatively intact as they have been sheltered
from burning. Species within these shrublands include Coprosma spps, kanuka,
manuka, mountain flaz, toetoe, and the occasional broadleaf.
The native vegetation communities in the unit’s southern portion are fragmented. The
sunny slopes have been converted into pasture, while the darker slopes contain only
remnants of manuka that appear to be burnt on a regular basis.
Landscape Values:
The gorge section of the Beaumont River has moderately-high landscape values,
attributable to the wild and scenic qualities associated with reaches of white water
tumbling over and around large rocks. In aesthetic terms, the enclosed gorge is a
vivid feature as it contrasts markedly with the uniformity and openness of the tall
grasslands.
Visual Values:
The visual values are moderate due both to part of it being enclosed within a river
gorge and the lack of visual accessibility from any public vantage points.
This unit is moderately sensitive to change, with threats including:
•
•
•
•
•
Depletion and decline of native shrublands.
Decline in ecological health of tall grasslands.
Wind distribution of wilding pines.
An increase in water abstraction affecting the visual quality of the gorge.
2.1.4
(LU 4) Home Block
Description:
The Home Block has been assessed as one landscape unit owing to the repetitive
nature of the landform, dominated by a complexity of ridgelines separated by
irregular-shaped gullies. Rounded crests typify the ridgelines with the ridges
gradually descending in altitude towards the southern end of the hill block. This unit
contains more exposed rock outcrops than the units within the Home Block.
The irregular-shaped gullies penetrate into the main ridgeline that separates Bowlers
Creek from the Young Valley Creek and the Tuapeka River. There are a number of
smaller tributaries feeding into the main watercourses that wind around the small side
8
spurs jutting out from the slopes. The side slopes of the gullies are lightly undulating,
with the gradient increasing markedly along the lower side slopes where there is the
occasional rapid drop off to the valley floor. The topography of the Young Valley is
different to the surrounding broken hill country as the valley has a wide concave cross
section.
The composition of the vegetation can be divided into two separate categories. Firstly
there is the developed pasture that is well maintained by regular aerial oversowing and
top dressing (AOS&TD). Secondly there is native shrublands dominated by
kanuka/manuka.
The composition of the kanuka/manuka shrublands depends on aspect and disturbance
history. On sites protected from previous fires, the kanuka/manuka shrublands are
relatively diverse with a strong representation of other native woody species including
widely distributed cabbage trees, Pittosporum spp, marbleleaf, Coprosma spp,
broadleaf and red matipo. Within the centre of the more-established shrubland
communities occasional pockets of silver beech occur, whilst around the fringes of the
older shrublands occasional single or small groves of southern kowhai are present.
In areas of rapidly regenerating kanuka/manuka the native flora is less diverse with
large patches of bracken fern being a common ground cover. Within such areas the
vegetative cover is going through a dynamic phase and opportunist weed species such
as Himalayan honeysuckle, elderberry and gorse are common. Wilding pines are also
wide spread through the kanuka/manuka shrublands and some of these are at a conebearing stage.
The hill country has been subdivided into several large grazing blocks that are
accessed by the relatively well-maintained Young and Medwin Roads which
approximate the main ridge line.
Landscape Values:
Parts of this unit convey significant landscape values that are attributable to:
•
•
•
•
The irregular pattern of the kanuka/manuka shrublands contrasting with the
open pasture.
The coarse texture of the kanuka/manuka shrublands that vary from the fine
texture of the surrounding pasture.
The repetitive nature of the kanuka/manuka shrublands, which help to generate
a sense of local identity.
The striking contrast in colour between the olive/grey of the kanuka/manuka
shrublands and the light green of the surrounding pasture.
In total these qualities create a rural landscape that has distinctive “parkland”
characteristics primarily owing to the edge of the shrublands being well defined by
cultivated farmland. From a natural landscape perspective many of the larger intact
shrublands form an altitudinal gradient that extends from close to the crest of the main
ridgeline down to the valley floors.
9
Visual Values:
The visual resource value of the kanuka shrublands can only be appreciated from
localized viewing points owing to the deep folds in the topography. A series of small
remnants are visually accessible for a stretch of approximately 1km along State
Highway 8. However, due to the fragmented nature of these shrublands their
visual/scenic value is limited.
The potential changes to the inherent landscape characteristics of this unit are:
•
•
•
•
•
2.1.5
Increased edge effect by creating more convoluted margins in the shrublands.
Further encroachment into the shrublands’ margins by weed species such as
gorse and Himalayan honeysuckle.
Further fragmentation of the existing intact shrublands.
Further spread of wilding pines.
Introduction of large-scale plantation forestry which would have an adverse
effect on the existing parkland-like qualities.
Significance of the Landscape
Much of the pastoral lease has moderate to high landscape values. These values are:
•
•
•
•
2.2
Significant areas of snow tussockland in the Run Block
The ability to amalgamate these areas into the Te Papanui Conservation Park,
thereby preserving the tall grasslands’ special intrinsic values of having both
indefinable boundaries and a sense of remoteness.
The wild and scenic qualities of the Beaumont River gorge.
Significant areas of regenerating silver beech and kanuka/manuka forest and
shrublands in the Home Block.
Landforms, Geology and Soils
a) Landforms and Geology
The Run Block lies on a broad, rolling spur of gentle relief projecting from the
Lammerlaw Range. The range and spur are part of the Otago peneplain, a late
Cretaceous to early Cenozoic erosion surface blanketed with up to 5 m depth of loess
deposited during the Quaternary, smoothing the older landscape (Bishop and
Turnball, 1996). The surface is dissected by the heads of small streams, with the
effect being exaggerated by the instability of the loess soils on steeper slopes. Rock
outcrops are rare on the spur while small bare rock bluffs occur on the sides of the
deeper gullies.
A branch of the northern spur continues through the Home Block and is presumed
also to be part of the Otago peneplain, but here it is confined between the deeply
10
incised Tuapeka River and Bowlers Creek catchments. This spur is more heavily
dissected by large gullies that fall steeply to these base levels.
The geology underlying the lease is Haast Schist of the Caples Group (Caples
Terrane), which increases in metamorphic grade from south to north (Marshall, 1918;
Bishop and Turnball, 1996). Much of the Home Block lies on sandstone/mudstone
semi-schist, grading to schist at its northern end (Haast Schist grades IIB and IIIA).
The Run Block lies on quartzofeld-spathic schist grading from IIIA in the south to
IIIB in the northeastern third of the block with some greywacke conglomerate, breccia
and gold bearing schist (Bishop and Turnball, 1996).
The major structural features in the vicinity of the lease is the the Tuapeka fault zone,
which lies just east of the Home Block and an anticline fold that runs the length of the
Lammerlaw Range, to the north of the Run Block.
b) Soils
The parent material of loess and schist colluvium form predominantly loess and loam
soils, the thickness of which is largely slope-dependent, hence there is a marked
variation of soil depth. The difference in rainfall between the Run and Home blocks
has a marked effect on the soils, as in lower rainfall areas there are predominantly
pale-coloured moderately leached compact subsoils, with poor winter drainage on
easier slopes, while in the higher rainfall areas soils are strongly leached, with more
friable, better drained subsoils, being upland podzolised yellow-brown earths and
podzols (Maungatau Lammerlaw).
The majority of the Run Block is within Gopreservation site no. 356
Lammerlaws/Lammermoors, which is characterised by rolling hillslopes and steep
gullies. This site contains large areas of soils under unmodified vegetation and that
have formed under sequences of climate and vegetation. These soils have been
characterised in detail (Arand et al, 1991. See Appendix 2 and Map 4.2.3).
2.2.3
Significance of Landforms, Geology and Soils
The soils in the Run Block have been recognised by Arand et al (1991) as being
nationally important. The factors that contribute to the soils significance are:
•
•
•
2.3
Large areas of soils under unmodified vegetation.
Soils under sequences of climate and vegetation.
Soils have been characterised in detail.
Climate
The southern boundary of the Home Block and the northern boundary of the Run
Block receive on average approximately 600mm p.a. and 1000mm p.a. of rainfall
respectively.
Within the Run Block there is a summer maximum of rainfall and lesser peak in
winter. Snow can fall in any month and is the main form of precipitation during
11
winter. Due to the rolling terrain and exposure from all directions, the area is windy,
with the mean wind speed being 20km/hr. Fog and cloud is common beteen 600 m
asl. and 800 m asl.
The Home Block has a cool, moist climate with average rainfall at the homestead
being between 600-800mm p.a. Summer droughts are uncommon and snow may lie
for a few weeks during winter at higher altitudes.
2.4 Vegetation
The following four land units are identified for the purpose of describing the
vegetation.
• Run Block- Waipori River Catchment
• Run Block- Beaumont River Catchment
• Northern Home Block
• Southern Home Block
The extent of each unit is described on map 4.2.3 and the list of vascular plants
recorded during the survey is attached as Appendix 2.
2.4.1
Run Block- Waipori River Catchment
Narrow-leaved snow tussock (Chionochloa rigida) is the dominant species of the
remarkably uniform grassland that covers most of this unit. Snow tussock cover
varies from 20-50% on sunny faces at low elevation to nearly 100% at high elevation.
Intertussock vegetation is mainly the exotic grasses sweet vernal (Anthoxanthus
odoratum) and browntop (Agrostis capillaris), but catsear (Hypochaeris radicata) is
prominent throughout, along with a suite of small native species that include patotara
(Leucopogon fraseri), Pernettya macrostigma, Raoulia subsericea, Kelleria
dieffenbachii, Lycopodium fastigiatum, and, mainly at low elevation, golden Spaniard.
Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) predominates in the lowest elevation gullies of
this land unit, becoming increasingly sparse and smaller-statured with elevation to its
limit at about 800m asl. in tussock grassland. Inaka (Dracophyllum longifolium) and
Hebe odora are conspicuous components of shrubland with manuka at higher
elevations. Scattered stands of silver beech (Nothofagus menziesii) also occur on the
banks of the Waipori River.
Most headwaters support small bogs with variable species composition including
Sphagnum mosses, Dracophyllum prostratum, turpentine shrub (D. uniflorum),
sundew (Drosera arcturi), rautahi, and occasional shrubs of bog pine (Halocarpus
bidwillii). Snow tussock and most of the small herbaceous and sub-shrub species of
the surrounding tussock grassland also occur, at least at the fringes, in bogs. Small
tarns are present in several of these wetlands.
12
2.4.2
Run Block- Beaumont River Catchment
The face between the axial road and the Beaumont River, north of the huts centred on
grid reference G44 496904, is dominated at higher altitudes by snow tussock and at
lower altitudes by shrubland.
Within the tussocklands, tussock density is variable but of tall statue. Intertussock
vegetation is similar in composition and abundance to that in the adjacent land unit.
Bogs are less abundant as the catchments are of a steeper profile than the adjacent
unit. The bogs species composition is also similar to that in the adjacent land unit.
The shrubland in the Beaumont River catchment (centred on grid reference G44
493890) is characterised by manuka, some kanuka (Kunzea ericoides) up to 500m
asl., Olearia bullata, tauhinu (Ozothamnus leptophyllus), inaka, Coprosma rugosa, C.
rigida, native broom (Carmichaelia petriei), mountain flax (Phormium cookianum),
bracken, and prickly shield fern (Polystichum vestitum). Manuka grades into the
tussock grasslands, becoming increasingly sparse and smaller-statured with elevation
to its limit at about 800 m asl.
Between the main axial track and the large water race in the western part of the upper
block, snow tussock grassland with scattered manuka has been burnt and grazed to the
extent that tussocks are sparse and very small and the vegetation is dominated by
exotic pasture species. Nevertheless, this area has potential to recover in the absence
of fire and grazing.
The area at the south-western end of this land unit contains predominantly introduced
pasture species, burnt and cleared shrubland and scattered small stands of kanuka and
manuka.
2.4.3
Northern Home Block
This unit is the portion of the Home Block north of two un-named streams centred on
grid references G44 4877775 and 480776 respectively.
Stands of silver beech are located in tributary gullies and the steep-sided main courses
of Youngs Valley, the Tuapeka River, and Bowlers Creek. The silver beech trees, up
to 20m tall and 0.5m diameter at breast height, form a canopy over a sparse
understorey that includes broadleaved small trees such as lancewood (Pseudopanax
crassifolius), broadleaf (Griselinia littoralis) and marble leaf (Carpodetus serratus).
Coprosma species, Fuchsia colensoi, and a few other shrub species are also present as
a sparse shrub layer. Ground cover is mostly beech litter, with scattered ferns
including Blechnum montanum, B. fluviatile, and prickly shield fern.
Surrounding the beech stands and extending up most steep gully sides and faces are
stands of kanuka up to 15 m tall, with usually less manuka, forming a more or less
continuous canopy. Broadleaf, marble leaf, kowhai (Sophora microphylla) and
cabbage tree (Cordyline australis) are occasionally conspicuous, especially at lower
elevations. A Halls totara (Podocarpus hallii) was recorded on a face centred on grid
reference G44 49478, above the Tuapeka River.
13
There is usually little or no understorey, except for Coprosma species where
broadleaved trees dominate the canopy in gully bottoms. Ground vegetation
comprises mainly sparse pasture species, bracken (Pteridium esculentum), and prickly
shield fern. Kanuka is more or less absent above about 500 m asl. and narrow-leaved
snow tussock is present as relict plants in pasture surrounding areas of
kanuka/manuka shrubland.
An extensive wetland area occupies much of the wide floor of Youngs Valley.
Rautahi (Carex coriacea) covers seepage areas, whereas soft rush (Juncus effusus)
and less J. distegus form clumps on drier ground, usually in association with silver
tussock (Poa cita), some hard tussock (Festuca novae-zelandiae), lotus (Lotus
pedunculatus) and common pasture species. Sweet grass (Glyceria sp.) is abundant at
streamsides.
2.4.4
Southern Home Block
This unit has been extensively developed and the exotic dominated pasture regularly
ASTOD.
Indigenous character is therefore restricted to bracken fern and
kanuka/manuka dominated shrub in the gully heads and faces above the Tuapeka
River between spot heights 363 m asl. and 287 m asl. The kanuka/manuka shrublands
on the shady steeper sections of these faces are relatively intact and regenerating
strongly. The species composition of these areas is similar to other kanuka/manuka
stands on the Home Block, with cabbage trees being more prevalent.
2.4.5
Problem Plants
Run Block
Problem plants are remarkably rare. Three Hieracium species (H. pilosella, H.
praealtum, H. lepidulum) occur only as scattered plants at the lowest elevations,
where they pose little threat to natural values in the dense tussock-dominated
grassland. At low elevations there are scattered patches of gorse (Ulex europeaeus),
especially along the sides of the Beaumont and Waipori Rivers, and a few scattered
wilding conifers. Both gorse and wildling conifers pose a considerable threat to the
natural values of tussock grassland. Spanish heath (Erica lusitanica) was not
recorded but is present nearby and should be prevented from establishing in the
tussock grasslands, where it would be a significant threat to natural values.
Home Block
Gorse is frequent along the margins of shrubland and forest, while broom (Cytisus
scoparius) is less prevalent. Himalayan honeysuckle (Leycesteria formosa) is
aggressively invading low vegetation of bracken and prickly shield fern. None of
these species is considered a significant threat to natural values of shrubland and
forest within this block. Spanish heath was also recorded amongst sparse shrubland
on the Home Block’s westernmost spur. It is likely to spread along tracks and forest
edges, but will probably be overtopped and displaced as the native vegetation
becomes denser and taller.
14
Confiers are widespread through the kanuka/manuka shrublands with some of the
pines being at cone-bearing stage. Ongoing removal and monitoring of pines will be
required, given the ongoing invasion of wildings from the exotic timber plantations on
both the eastern and western boundaries.
2.4.6
Significance of Vegetation
The ecological values on the lease are outlined in Map 4.2.3. The significance of the
four major plant communities and associated vegetation sequences are described
below.
Forest and shrubland
Forest, in particular silver beech, covered most of the Lammerlaw Ecological Region
(ER) below treeline before the arrival of Polynesian people some 750 years ago.
Evidence for the area’s former forest is found as soil charcoal, surface features such as
forest dimples, subfossil logs of Hall’s totara and the relict stands of forest.
The majority of this vegetation has been removed from the Lawrence ER, and its reestablishment is prevented through the ongoin destruction of successional shrublands.
The shrubland and forest that remain on the lease therefore have very high ecological
significance as being amongst the few surviving examples of the pre-Polynesian and
pre-European woody vegetation of the ER.
Tussock grassland
The Run Block tussock grassland is similar to that of the adjacent Te Papanui
Conservation Park, and typical of tussock grassland that covered the upper elevations
of the Lammerlaw ER before the arrival of European settlers. Most tussock grassland
at these elevations on the Otago plateau has been converted to farmland or exotic
forest plantation, and that which remains here represents one of very few extensive
montane tussock grassland landscapes surviving in Otago. Tussock grassland on the
lease is a conspicuous component of this landscape, not least because it fills a
prominent gap in the grassland protected in the adjacent Conservation Park, and is in
very good condition. It is of considerable ecological significance.
Wetland
The Youngs Valley wetland is significant due to its size (approximately 10 ha), its
linkages to shrubland and forest ecosystems and the scarcity of remaining low
elevation wetlands in the Lawrence ED. It has high potential for restoration
Bogs
The upland bogs on the Run Block are typical of others elsewhere in the Waipori ED
as described by Carter (1993) and Otago Regional Council (1998). These have
excellent water holding potential and contribute to the steady stream flow of the
associated catchments. Some also are refugia for bog pine, a species much reduced in
the Waipori ED.
15
Sequences
Three sequences are significant, the first being the riparian vegetation along Bowlers
Creek, the second being similar riparian vegetation along the Tuapeka River, the third
being shrublands in both the Beaumont and Waipori Rivers into the adjoining tussock
grasslands.
The Bowlers Creek sequence spans 150 m. to 400 m asl. at the northern boundary of
the lease, where it abuts an existing scenic reserve, thereby giving a rise to a potential
overall sequence from 150 m to 600 m. This sequence forms a wildlife corridor and
protects the top 6km of the 10km Bowlers Creek catchment.
The Tuuapeka River sequence also spans 150 m asl. to 400 m asl. and complements
areas of similar vegetation on the Tuapeka’s eastern bank. Under the current land
tenure these are protected by the Forest Accord, thereby forming a wild life corridor
and protecting a portion of the Tuapeka River catchment.
The third sequence comprises of regenerating forest and shurblands which grade into
tussock grasslands and associated high elevation vegetation of the summit of the
Lammerlaw Range. This sequence allows for the altitudinal migration of both flora
and fauna.
Threatened or significant species
Olearia bullata and Thelymitra formosa are listed as “sparse” by Hitchmough (2002).
2.5 Fauna
2.5.1
Invertebrate Fauna
Weather during the survey was generally fine and mild with cool evenings but
increasing cloud and some thunderstorms occurred in the north on the final day.
Invertebrates were mostly collected by hand. In addition, night time ultraviolet light –
wet traps were placed for one evening at a site on the upper Waipori Rivers, at the
south eastern edge of the northern block (H44 522867). Appendix 4 contains a
species list of the invertebrates collected on the lease.
Run Block fauna
Of the invertebrates recorded, a significant proportion of the moths, a few of the
butterflies and three species of grasshopper are associated with tall tussock grassland.
A good mixture of speargrass and herbs, with shrub species on steeper ground and in
gullies, enrich the grassland faunal habitats. This shows in the presence of species
such as the widespread speargrass moth Graphania nullifera, and the Hebe feeding
torticid Harmologa pontifical which is rarely found in Otago. In additions, four moth
species associated with rock talus, and/or exposed rock bluffs were noted. These
included the geometrid Helastia plumbea, a feeder on mosses on the rock faces, which
is uncommonly found this far east. Many of these insects are representative of lower
South Island grassland/shrubland that retains good natural character. The diversity
16
associated with this block is attested to by the presence of local and uncommon
species such as the geometrids Graphania sequens, Graphania n.sp.cf. insignis (an
eastern Otago endemic) and the crambid Scoparia trapezophora. Two moth species
have type localities associated with the block: Aletia sollennis (Meyrick 1914) (type
locality upper Waipori River; a local but sometimes common species, also found
during this survey) and Orocrambus geminus (Patrick 1991) (type locality
Lammermoor Range, associated with snowgrass, not found during this survey).
Characteristic of extensive wet flush areas along streams and in the heads of gullies
are moths Orocrambus aethonellus and Eudonia octophora.
The cranefly
zealandotipula novarae (seasonally very abundant), giant darning needle dragonfly
Uropetala chiltoni and stonefly Zealandobius kuscheli (endemic to east Otago schist
terrain) are also indicative of the natural character of flush habitats. Suggesting the
complexity of wetlands, with some areas of increased fertility or surface water
flooding, are noctuid moths Graphania fenwicki (larvae on herbs in damp grassland;
endemic to East Otago) and Tmetolophota arotis (larvae feed on toetoe). The
occurance of G. fenwicki is of some interest in that Patrick et al. (1993) found it only
of Maungatua on the eastern edge of Waipori ED during their invertebrate survey of
this ED. They considered it to be a specis of “extreme south east of the South Island”.
On the north-western edge of the block a riparian zone between the Beaumont River
and the power company water race holds a mosaic of the habitats mentioned
previously and also protects instream values.
Home Block fauna
Shrubland and forest vegetation signal the potential for invertebrate diversity and the
significant inherent value of these ecosystems. Invertebrate habitat diversity includes
deep and often rocky gorges with silver beech forest refugia and a diversity if herbs
and shrubs. Also lianes, such as Muehlenbeckia australis, which is rich in insect
herbivores including the Copper butterfly (Antipodalycaena n.sp.). The large stands
of tall kanuka and small groups of kowhai, both with seasonally abundant flower
resources, also contribute to the diversity of the invertebrate habitat. Beech forest
fragments retain many typical and viable invertebrate associations for the region,
indicated in part by the presence of large mygalomorph spiders. The viability of these
fragments is particularly significant for the Lawrence ED where beech ecosystems
have almost disappeared.
South of the Young Valley/Tuapeka River confluence lie some east to south-facing
scrub-covered slopes below spot heights 363 m asl. and 348 m asl. Mainly kanuka at
the top, these faces appeared to have more diverse vegetation towards the valley
floors but they were not investigated in any details. They also had more prominent
rock outcrops than was noted elsewhere on the lease, with some talus accumulation.
These rocky habitats can have considerable importance as invertebrate habitat, but
there was insufficient time to investigate them.
There are significant riparian and floodway communities where shrubs shelter stream
insects, bind soils, and also provide stream shade and coarse organic material. In this
sense the shrublands are buffering stream ecosystems that are otherwise exposed to
sedimentation (pulsed from forestry blocks and including much particulate matter
17
from intense pastoral land use). Up to 5 kilometres of riparian vegetation along
Bowlers Creek and a similar length along Tuapeka River at low altitude (120-370 m
asl.) provide, for the Lawrence ED, significant faunal habitat. The presence of
seepage zones and small water courses within these riparian zones add further
diversity. These riparian zones also provide corridors linking with similar habitat
which has riparian setbacks in both the neighbouring conservation land and the
Glendhu Forest.
The extensive wetland in Youngs Valley is a modified ecosystem. Widely
represented insects (such as a red coat damsel Xanthicnemis zealandicus and the
stonefly zelandobius uniramous) are present. Botanical diversity at this site is limited,
which in turn limits the diversity of plant-associated insects, but there is considerable
restoration potential.
2.5.1.1
Significance of the Invertebrate Fauna
Patrick et al. (1993) indicate that the upper Waipori in the region of the Run Bock is a
significant area for conservation of a very complex upland invertebrate fauna
including many significant regionally-endemic elements. This diversity continues
into the Run Block as borne out by the results of this survey.
Rare and local species found include the noctuid moths Graphania sequens, G
fenwicki and Graphania n.sp., cf. insignis and the crambid beetle Scoparia
trapezophora. Other notable records are the geometrid Helastia plumbea, considered
to be uncommon in the east, and the tortricid Harmologa pontifical which is known
from few Otago localities. Overall the Run Block insect assemblage indicates an
invertebrate fauna of high diversity from bog, grassland, shrubland and rockfaces in
near natural condition. There is a strong southern New Zealand element in the fauna.
Although the values of the Home Block are more dispersed, the low altitude (130-370
m asl.) wooded communities associated with gullies and extensive riparian zones of
Bowlers Creek and Tuapeka River are significant for the Lawrence ED, as within the
ED ecosystems such as the beech forest fragments are scarce and few are protected.
These remain viable for invertebrates and have strong regenerative potential if destocked, woody weeds controlled and given room for expansion. Retention of
linkages with riparian corridors and other remnants would also improve conservation
values.
The combination of the Home Block’s faunal habitats, which includes tall shrubland,
beech forest fragments, lianes, gorges, some rock bluffs and talus slopes is significant
as it is representative of the Lawrence ED.
18
2.5.2
Herpetofauna
“Site locations of rare and endangered herpetofauna are recorded in the original report.
Herpetofauna of this nature is at risk of illegal activities including damage and removal through
unlawful interference and disturbance. Accordingly, information regarding the locations of any
such herpetofauna has been deleted from this version of the report. The Department of
Conservation has put in place mechanisms to ensure that such information can be released for
genuine scientific and research purposes. Please contact the Department of Conservation
directly to determine whether the information can be released.”
Habitats surveyed (all during the day) were tussock grasslands, rock outcrops, stream/
gorge shrublands, beech remnants and manuka shrublands.
In a rock crevice one gecko dropping was found. Another solitary dropping, which
was more consistent with those of skinks, was found on a stone near the edge of the
rock outcrop. The gecko dropping was in size with those of Hoplodactylus sp.
“Central Otago” (Hitchmough, unpub.), which has been recorded nearby at Beaumont
and is widespread and common in the Clutha Valley.
Skinks, probably Oligosoma maccanni, were observed on a rock face adjacent to
Bowlers Creek. Except for these locations no other evidence of lizards was found on
the property.
It is possible, however, that the jewelled gecko (Naultinus gemmeus) has survived in
forest remnants. This species is notoriously difficult to detect in inland Otago and the
failure to find this species at Castle Dent cannot be taken as evidence for its absence.
2.5.2.1
Significance of Herpetofauna
The presence of lizard droppings and the sighting of skinks confirm that lizards are
present at a couple of places on the lease. However, the lease contains no known
significant herpetofauna values.
2.5.3
Avifauna
Table 1 lists bird species seen or heard on the lease. A possible additional species is
brown creeper (Mohua novaeseelandiae), two of which were tentatively identified
through binoculars in kanuka forest.
Table 1: Bird species recorded on the lease. Exotic species are denoted by an asterisk.
Species
Acanthisitta chloris
Alauda arvensis*
Anthornis melanura
Anthus novaeseelandiae
Common name
Rifleman
Skylark
Bellbird
Pipit
Habitat
Forest, shrubland
Pasture, tussock grassland
Forest, shrubland
19
Carduelis flammea*
Circus approximans
Emberiza citrinella*
Fringilla coelebs*
Gerygone igata
Gymnorhina tibicen*
Haematopus ostralegus
Sturnus vulgaris*
Tadorna variegate
Turdus merula*
Vanellus miles
2.5.3.1
Redpoll
Australasian harrier
Yellowhammer
Chaffinch
Grey warbler
Australian magpie
Pied oystercatcher
Starling
Paradise shelduck
Blackbird
Spur-winged plover
Forest, shrubland, pasture
Forest, shrubland
Significance of Avifauna
The most significant record is Rifleman, as the lease is at the edge of its distributinal
limit. (Bull et al, 1985). Rifelman were seen in beech/kanuka forest near Bowlers
Creek.
2.5.4
Aquatic Fauna
There are no freshwater fish records for the lease registered on the National Institute
of Water and Atmospheric Research Freshwater Fish Database. However, DOC has
conducted previous surveys in adjacent areas outside the lease boundary, where dusky
galaxiid (Galaxias pullus) and brown trout were recorded.
During the inspection, 11 sites were fished within the lease boundaries (refer to
Appendix 5 for their location). Streams within the lease flow into the Clutha and the
Waipori catchments.
Waipori Catchment
The lower Waipori sites contained brown trout, the upper sites contained only dusky
galaxiid. Trout access to the upper sites must be somehow being prevented as dusky
galaxiids have never been recorded co-existing with brown trout.
The main stem of the Waipori River contained low numbers of aquatic invertebrates,
possible due to the lack of spaces in the substrate. However the species present
suggests excellent water quality. The riparian margins were in the main in good
condition with tussock dominating, which provide both excellent bank stability and
fish cover.
Clutha Catchment
The power company water race, Beaumont River and Bowlers Creek were surveyed.
The water race is an open trench-like channel with no in-stream or bank cover,
therefore providing little fish habitat. Koura and one small trout were found.
The Beaumont River was surveyed above the power company weir intake. The week
prior to the inspection a flash flood turned over the stream bed and caused bank
erosion. Both events had an adverse effect on the fish survey. One brown trout was
observed while invertebrate numbers were very low with only one stonefly being
20
recorded. The stream bed was of bedrock/cobble/ coarse gravel. There was a lot of
exposed bedrock but this could have been due to the recent flood.
Bowlers Creek
A site at the middle of the Home Block was surveyed. This site is lined by silver
beech which totally enclosed the creek, creating an excellent riparian margin. Brown
trout were recorded in low numbers. Water quality appeared to be high with
unidentified species of stoneflies being present.
2.5.4.1
Significance of Aquatic Fauna
Dusky galaxias are ranked as a species in gradual decline (Hitchmough, 2002). It is
confined to eastern Otago, primarily in Waipori River, from just below Mahinerangi
Dam and upstream to upper headwaters; in upper tributaries of Tuapeka and
Waitahuna Rivers and one tributary of the Taieri River. Distributional surveys are
incomplete, but at present there are only twenty known populations. Eight of these
populations are in the Waipori and Tuapeka catchment, in areas within first rotation
forestry plantations. The impacts of logging on these populations is unknown, but are
not expected to be beneficial. The largest populations exist in the upper Waipori
River and a series of Waipori tributaries draining the Lammerlaw Ranges. As the
presence or absence of Dusky galaxiids does seem to be controlled by the presence of
competing brown trout, brook char (Salveliuus fontinalis) and koaro (Galaxias
brevipinnis) the population on the lease is significant.
2.5.6
Problem Animals
Pig rooting was evident in scattered locations across much of the property, but
damage to native vegetation is insignificant. Hares and rabbits are present, and fallow
deer frequent the forest and shrubland. At the time of the survey, 1080 poison had
been laid for possums, and little fresh possum sign was evident. Animal pests are
having little effect on the native vegetation, suggesting that their numbers are low.
Feral cats, ferrets, stoats, hedgehogs, and rats are likely to be present throughout the
lease, and undoubtedly reduce populations of native birds, reptiles, and invertebrates.
The boundary between the Run Block and the property immediately to the west,
Beaumont Station, is not stock proof. Cattle from Beaumont Station frequent the Run
Block, and have been found in the Glendhu Tussock Reserve.
2.6
Historic
2.6.1
Maori Cultural Values
There are no known Maori sites recorded on the lease.
2.6.2
Heritage Values
There are no known heritage sites recorded on the lease.
21
2.7
2.7.1
Public Recreation
Physical Characteristics
In 1992 DOC compiled a Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) for the entire
Otago Conservancy whereby all areas regardless of land tenure, were classified and
mapped according to setting, activity and recreational experience characteristics.
The top third of the Run Block is zoned ‘Winter Backcountry Walk In’, which is
characterised by “a feeling of relative remoteness from populated areas”. The highly
natural setting is a valued part of the experience and may be associated with
motivations of “escape from town”, education, exercise, and/or a sense of being close
to nature. Such walk-in areas are described as being “although relatively close to
visitor facility developments, access to these areas is only possible on foot and is often
associated with tramping tracks or routes”.
The middle third of the Run Block is zoned ‘Backcountry 4WD In’ which is
characterised by “a feeling of relative remoteness from populated areas”. The highly
natural setting is a valued part of the experience and may be associated with
motivations of “escape from town”, education and nature appreciation. Four wheel
drive vehicles are desirable to give access to high country tussock grasslands and
block mountains and more rugged remote areas such as the Lammerlaws and
Lammermoors to the north.
The remainder of the pastoral lease is zoned “rura”l. This recreational opportunity is
characterised by a feeling of being away from urban areas, but in a strongly humanmodified setting. Focus of activity in this class is likely to be on companionship with
family and friends and relaxation. Common recreation activities would be driving for
pleasure, horse riding, walking and picnicking. Duration of trips is usually less than a
day.
In 1988, Federated Mountain Clubs compiled an outdoor recreation plan for Central
Otago’s block mountains (Mason, 1988). The eastern Lammerlaws are noted as
offering a natural experience in summer and a remote experience in the winter, as the
area holds particular attractions for recreational naturalists and for those wishing to
disappear from the sights and sounds of civilisation.
2.7.2
Legal Access
a) Roads
Gardiners Track (a rough formed track) provides 4WD access to and through the Run
Block and coincides in parts with the legal road. Gardiners Track branches off Munro
Road near Gabriels Gully, winds through the Glendhu Forest and traverse the length
of the Run Block.
Two other legal roads bifurcate off Gardiners track, the first providing solely legal
along the Run Blocks south eastern boundary to the Waipori River, the second
22
approximates a farm track and provides access to Beaumont River. It is unclear who
(if anyone) maintains Gardiners Track and Medwins/Youngs Roads.
Medwin and Youngs Roads, in combination, provide legal and practical 4WD access
along the north to south running ridge that bisects the Home Block. Legal roads
bifurcate off this road providing legal access to the upper and lower reaches of
Bowlers Creek, the upper reaches of the Tuapeka River and the ridge centred on grid
reference G44 491786.
There is a section of formed track between Youngs Road and the entrance to the
Home Block from SH 8 that is not on legal road.
b) Marginal Strips
Marginal strips are present along the Tuapeka River, the Beaumont River and the
lower section of Bowlers Creek.
2.7.3
Activities
Gardiners Track provides public access to Te Papanui Conservation Park’s southern
boundary, and in combination with Medwins and Youngs Road, offers opportunities
for scenic driving, four-wheel driving, mountain biking and horse riding. Other
recreational activities include day walks, and foot access for tramping and crosscountry skiing on the Lammerlaws and Lammermoors. With the lessees permission
deer hunting takes place in Bowlers Creek, while pig hunting is possible over much of
the property.
A relatively well maintained 4-6 berth musterers hut is located beside the Run Block
stockyards. With the permission of the lessee, the public use this hut occasionally.
PART 3
OTHER RELEVANT MATTERS & PLANS
3.1
Consultation
The lease was discussed in Alexandra at an NGO early warning meeting held on
September 21st 2002 and at a DOC report-back meeting May 22nd 2003. The
following points were made by NGOs at the early warning meeting.
•
The part of the Run Block above 700-800 m asl. is largely unmodified and
subject to significant inherent values should become conservation land.
Access along Gardeners Track from the east gives access to Te Papanui
Conservation Park and tenure review should ensure that this access is
maintained. Any tenure review outcomes from the Run Block could be
incorporated onto the Te Papanui Conservation Park (Federated Mountain
Club (FMC)).
•
Tenure review provides an opportunity to secure practical public access along
the true left bank of Bowlers Creek (via a benched track) to the silver beech
23
reserve upstream. Currently legal access is along the true right bank. This
reserve is presently under-utilised and provides a currently unavailable
roadside recreational opportunity between Milton and Roxburgh. The Run
Block, due to its aspect, has a reduced snow line and therefore offers good
untapped opportunities for cross-country skiing (Public Access New Zealand
(PANZ)).
NGOs made the following comments at the 22nd May 2003 early warning meeting.
•
The significant access route up the true left bank of Bowlers Creek should be
secured by this review and appropriate carparking, signage and route marking
provided. The tenure review should also result in full protection of the areas
of significant vegetation in Bowlers Creek (PANZ).
•
Freeholding of the extensively modified area in the Run Block immediately to
the west of the vehicle track would risk comprising the landscape values of the
surrounding area, if this area was inappropriately developed (Forest and Bird).
•
The legal road that branches off Youngs Road, zig zagging down a ridge to
Bowlers Creek through spot height 253m may have been surveyed and could
provide suitable public access. Given its location, access via this route may be
attractive to future freehold owners (PANZ).
•
The lease contains pigs and some fallow deer. Access along the true left bank
of Bowlers Creek would provide better access than the currently legal access
along the opposite bank (New Zealand Deerstalkers Association).
•
The restoration to full Crown ownership of the Run Block tussock grasslands
would maintain continuity with tussock grasslands on Beaumont Station (Prof.
Alan Mark).
FMC have also produced a report outlining the significant recreation, conservation
and landscape values on the property. A full copy of this report is attached as
Appendix 6. The key recommendations are as follow.
1. In the Run Block all the land in the northern and eastern portions should be
protected by their return to full Crown ownership and control, under management of
DOC. The formed road through the centre of the Run Block should be included
within the protected portion to provide for continued public access. The hut beside the
yards (within the area to be returned to full Crown ownership and control) should be
retained for public use and enjoyment.
2. The areas of kanuka forest and beech remnants on steep faces above Bowlers Creek
should be returned to full Crown ownership and control and managed as conservation
land.
3. The areas of kanuka forest and beech remnants on steep faces above the Tuapeka
River should be returned to full Crown ownership and control and managed as
conservation land, as well as one large face of kanuka and beech forest on a gully
leading to the Tuapeka River.
24
4. It may be appropriate to protect additional, smaller kanuka/beech remnants by the
use of protective covenants.
5. In the Run Block, public access along the water race above the Beaumont River
should be provided for.
6. Where the formed road differs in alignment from the legal road, it should be
ensured that the formed road has legal status as a public road.
7. Marginal strips must be laid off along any parts of Bowlers Creek and both the
Beaumont and Tuapeka rivers that fall inside freehold land.
FMC also noted the presence of the greenhood orchic, Pterostylis foliate, in one area
of kanuka shrubland. St George (1999), after unsuccessfully examining sites where
this orchid has been recorded historically noted that no records of Pterostylis foliate
have been made south of the Kakanui Ecological District in the last 30 years. The
Castle Dent population may therefore represent the current southern limit of this
taxon.
3.2
Regional Policy Statements & Plans
The section of the Home Block east of Young Road is subject to the Otago Regional
Plan: Water Rule which requires resource consent for suction dredge mining.
3.3
District Plan
The property is located within the Rural Resource Area of Clutha District Plan. In
general, the operative Clutha District Plan does not act as a trigger for the protection
of tussock grasslands and smaller wetlands and forest areas. The plan requires
resource consent for clearance of areas 5 ha or more of indigenous forest vegetation or
2ha or more of wetlands, and development within 10 m of any watercourse. In
addition, ground exceeding 30° slope that has been made bare by removal of
vegetation must be revegetated.
The portion of the Home Block east of Young Road is in the Tuapeka West Water
Supply Catchment. Resource consent is required for soil disturbance activities
(including removal of vegetation, and the planting and harvesting of trees for
commercial purposes) within 20m of any water body and for any activity that has a
significant adverse effect on any wetland.
There are no Potentially Outstanding Landscapes, Outstanding Natural Features,
registered archaeological sites, significant wetlands, or areas of significant habitat of
indigenous fauna as set out in the tables of the plan. Protection is limited to the
controls set out above.
25
3.4
Conservation Management Strategy & Plans
The Otago Conservancy has prepared a Conservation Management Strategy (CMS)
which was approved by the New Zealand Conservation Authority in August 1998.
The CMS identifies 41 special places of conservation interest in Otago Conservancy.
Castle Dent lies partly within the Lammermoor-Upper Taieri Special Place.
The CMS objectives for the Lammermoor-Upper Taieri Special Place relevant to
Castle Dent is:
“To protect the high conservation, landscape, hydrological and historic values of the
uplands while allowing and providing for appropriate recreational use”
The key implementation methods relevant to Castle Dent are:
a) Endeavour to negotiate with landowners through a variety of mechanisms
including pastoral lease tenure review to provide protection for important landscape,
nature conservation, recreational and water supply areas;
b) Develop and promote a “Te Papanui Conservation Park” concept for the tussock
grasslands and associated wetlands to be administered by the department on the range
crests, as a predominantly remote experience area with little recreational development;
c) Removal of wild animals and pest plants as appropriate;
d) Improve recreational facilities and access points;
e) The use of ORVs on land administered by the department will be confined to firm,
formed vehicle tracks selected in accordance with the criteria in Section 28.3.13;
f) Carry out an investigation of public access needs and make recommendations for a
rationalisation of marginal strips and roads.
Priorities for the Lammermoor- Upper Taieri special place are:
Protection, negotiation and advocacy in relation to the range crest tussock grasslands
and scroll plain wetland will be priorities in this special place.
3.5
New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy
The New Zealand Government is a signatory to the Convention on Biological
Diversity. In February 2000, Government released the New Zealand Biodiversity
Strategy which is a blueprint for managing the country’s diversity of species and
habits and sets a number of goals to achieve this aim. Of particular relevance to
tenure review, is Goal Three, the aim of which is to:
26
•
Maintain and restore a full range of remaining natural habitats and ecosystems
to a healthy functioning state, enhance critically scarce habitats, and sustain
the more modified ecosystems in production and urban environments, and do
what is necessary to:-Maintain and restore viable populations of all indigenous species across
their natural range and maintain their genetic diversity.
The strategy outlines action plans to achieve this goal covering terrestrial and
freshwater habitat and ecosystem protection, sympathetic management, pest
management, terrestrial and freshwater habitat restoration, threatened terrestrial and
freshwater species management.
27
PART 4: MAPS ETC.
4.1
Additional information
4.1.1
References
Arand et al. 1991. Inventory of New Zealand Soil Sites of International, National
and Regional Importance. Part 1- South Island and Southern Offshore Islands (1st
Edition). New Zealand Society of Soil Science Occasional Publication 1.
Bishop, D. G. and I. M. Turnbull (compilers), 1996. Geology of the Dunedin Area.
Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences 1:250,000 Geological, ap 21. 1 sheet +
51 p. Lower Hutt, New Zealand: Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences
Limited.
Bull et al. 1985. The Atlas of Bird Distribution in New Zealand. The Ornithological
Society of New Zealand, Wellington.
Carter, J. 1993: Waipori Ecological District. Survey Report No 24 for the Protected
Natural Areas Programme. Department of Conservation, Otago Conservancy.
Ewen, M. 1987: Ecological Regions and Districts of New Zealand. Department of
Conservation, Wellington.
Harper, K. 1992: Otago Recreation Opportunity Spectrum.
Conservation, Otago Conservancy.
Department of
Hitchmough, R. 2002: New Zealand Threat Classification System lists. Department of
Conservation, Wellington.
Marshall, P., 1918. The Geology of the Tuapeka District, Central Otago Division.
Bulletin no. 19 (New Series), Geological Survey Branch, New Zealand Department of
Mines. Government Printer, Wellington. 79p.
Mason, B. 1988: Outdoor Recreation in Otago. A Conservation Plan. Volume 1:
Central Otago’s Block Mountains. Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand (Inc),
Wellington.
28
Otago Regional Council, 1998. Proposed Regional Plan: Water for Otago.
Background Report 4: Significant Wetlands.
St George, I. 1999. Nature Guide to New Zealand Native Orchids. Random House
New Zealand, Auckland.
29
4.1.2
Appendices
Appendix 1: Description of RAP 3: Lammerlaw Tops. From Carter, J. 1994.
Waipori Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas
Programme. Department of Conservation, Wellington. June 1994.
Appendix 2: Geopreservation sites No. 356: Lammerlaws and LammermoorsExcerpt from Arand, J.; Basher, L.; McIntosh, P.; Heads, M. 1991. Inventory of New
Zealand Soil Sites of International, National and Regional Importance. Part 1- South
Island and Southern Offshore Islands (1st Edition). New Zealand Society of Soil
Science Occasional Publication 1.
Appendix 3: Vascular Plant Species List for Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
Appendix 4: Invertebrate Species List for Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
Appendix 5: Site details for Aquatic Fauna Survey.
Appendix 6: Federated Mountain Club Survey Report
4.2
ILLUSTRATIVE MAPS
4.2.1: Topo/Cadastral
4.2.2: Values- Landscape units and Landscape values
4.2.3: Values- Ecological/Recreational
4.2
Photographs
28
30
Appendix 1: Description of RAP 3: Lammerlaw Tops. From Carter, J. 1994.
Waipori Ecological District: Survey Report for the Protected Natural Areas
Programme. Department of Conservation, Wellington. June 1994.
31
MAP
RAP 3 LAMMERLAW TOPS
5/3
H44/540 950
GRID REFERENCE CENTRE
AREA
· 3700 ha
ALTITUDE RANGE
· 900 - 1159 metres
TENURE
· Pastoral Lease
SAMPLE SITES
· 18.6-18.1,19.1-19.12,20.1-20.5,21.1-21.6
AERIAL PHOTOS
Map Licence No 1991/42
SN 8286 I J3 I J5113
o
I
1
,
2
3 kilometres
I
I
32
SECTION FIV-E : AREAS RECOMMENDED FOR PROTECTION
5.3
RAP 3: LAMMERLAW TOPS.
Landsystem: Upland plateau
TWINSPAN group, Ecological Units, (Plots) .
-
6
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Chionochloa rigida and Halocarpus bidwiJlii shrub and grassland on side slope,
(20.5,21 A, 18.9)
Chionochloa rigida and Celmisia semi-cordata tussockland. (18.10)
Chionochloa rigida and Celmisia prorepens tussockland. (19.12)
Chionochloa rigidatussockland on sideslopes. (21.2,18.6,21.6,20,3,19.3,19.4,19.6,
19.9)
HaJocarpus bidwillii and Chionochloa rigida on Sphagnum crista tum wetlands (3.8, 18.8)
Halocarpus bidwillii and lichen wetlands. (21.3a, 20.4, 21.3b)
Kefleria paludosa, Gefmisia gfandulosa Sphagnum cristatum wetlands. (19.5, 19,2, 19.8,
19.11)
Lichen and moss cushion wetlands, (18,7,20.2,21.5,19.10)
Snowbank vegetation. (19,1, 19,7, 20.1,21.1)
Location and Landform
This RAP covers an area from around the Lammermoor Top along the dividing ridge of the
Lammerlaw Range and the slopes down both the south and north sides of the Range. This
area has a central position to the major drainage systems of the District. There is a
continuously repeated pattern of finely divided asymmetrical valleys rising to broad, planar or
rolling tops (Fig. 5.3).
The eastern boundary of this RAP is shared with the Deep Stream Scenic Reserve. 'The
streams at this end drain into Deep Stream and rock formations are exposed along the stream
courses. The Lammermoor Top has three domed, almost equal high points, with a radial
drainage system
T" northern slopes drain the head of the Taieri River, These streams begin from nivation
hUllows at the he-ad of all the slopes. The streams flow locally over ramp-like or chute
waterfalls created by the schist bed-rock sloping the same direction as the stream flow. At the
higher elevation the shallow slope angle contributes to poor drainage and the development of
a system of sphagnum wetlands with stepped pools. Lower down the streams have a steeper
gradient and the wetland areas occupy stream side, lower sideslope locations or places of
irregular drainage. The steep sides of all the valleys are in the lee of the prevailing south west
weather. The main ridge lines of the area converge to form a wedge shape,
The southern slopes of the Lammerlaw Range follow a similar pattern to the north side, except
that the stepped pool, wetland system and snowbanks are restricted to the highest elevations.
fhe asymmetrical landform patterns are very pronounced here with small patches of erosional
lctivity evident in some places. Most of the streams on the southern side of the Range drain
:)wards the Waipori River and Lake Mahinerangi, except the south~west corner which drains
ia the Beaumont River into the Clutha, A few very long and roughly parallel ridge lines divide
1e streams and link the skyline ridge with the lower slopes,
egetation
Ie vegetation covered nine of the 15 TWINSPAN classification plant groups (Fig. 2.2). The
jh-altitude tussockland is the most extensive type of vegetation group of this RAP Th.-. ~l_'
33
that represent this vegetation TWINSPAN Group 10 occur close together on the DCCA
ordination at the high altitude en d of the grassland range (Fig. 4.7). A large number of
inter-tussock species are in this group. The whipcord hebes, H. propinqua and H.
poppefwellii occur in this group, Jogether with some snowbank species such as Caltha
obtusa/ Astefia linearis and Gingdia baxterii.
Two other grassland types were distinguished by the TWINSPAN classification in Groups .,~
and 9. One of these groups is a C. rigida and Pernettya macrostigma combination andth
other had a very dense canopy of Chionochloa rigida and a more typical inter-tussock
species composition without the snowbank species.
There were Juncus effusus and Carex coriacea and other lowland wetland and
species in the ecological units of TWINSPAN Group 6. This type of vegetation was
widespread on the south side of the Lammerlaw Range and occurred in the hollows on
drained slopes. This ecological unit graded into more open and better drained areas
inter-tussock species such as Cefmisia semicordata. The overall character of this group
have been modified by fire in the past.
The sample (21.4) with Phyf!oc!adus afpinus is at the edge of this group and had little in
common with the other samples. The lower tier species may be the link between these
seemingly different types of vegetation. The DCCA ordination confirms the great diversity
these ecological unit samples by their wide scatter (Fig. 4.6).
The other main components of the RAP were the wetland communities in Groups 11, 12, 1
and 14. Group 11 had the bog pine, lichen and Sphagnum associations. Hafocarpus blcfWilliC
is also in Group 12. The sedge Carex gaudichaudiana, Gentiana amabilis and Orosera
were major components of Group 13. In the low-growing cushion bogs of TWINSPAN
14 Oonatia novae-zefandiae and Oreobo!us pectinatus were very common. This last group
often associated with the short first-order streams at the catchments heads.
At the head of the Taieri River some species of interest include Mitrasacme novae-zealandig
Iiparophy/lum gunnii and Actinotus no vae-ze!andiae.
Discussion
The Lammerlaw Tops cover the headwaters of the important catchments of the Waipori
Ecological District. The Taieri River is one of eastern Otago's most important rivers and wate
quality is a major issue for many downstream uses. The tannin-rich brown waters are referre
to on the label of '45 South' whiskey.
This area is one of the two largest blocks recommended for protection. It has some of the bEi;
Chionochloa rigida tussockland of the District and Region. The wetlands have very good '
examples of finger bog wetlands and stepped pools. A significant proportion of the
snowbank vegetation and landforms to be recommended for protection are within this RAP..
The snowbanks have a very diverse and probably unmodified range of herbfield plant
species.
These wetlands and blue tussock-herbfields are also very important sites for native insects.
Two rlew species of caddisfly, several undescribed stoneflies and a new'moth in the genus
Gymnobathra were first found here. Snowbanks are rich in diurnal beetles and moths, while
the highest points have some moth species such as Scoparia sideraspis, which are not
recorded elsewhere in the ecological District or even on the Rock and Pillar Range (Patrick et
al. 1993).
5: 12
34
SECTION FIVE: AREAS RECOMMENDED FOR PROTECTION
ere are very few fences in the area; they usually follow property boundaries. There is one
ck along the aXIs of the Range and down the southern slopes. Three trigs mark the
ammermoor Top. The area is comprised of a continuous and unbroken landscape of
ssockland on asymmetrical rolling mountain slopes and tops.
35
Appendix 2: Geopreservation sites No. 356: Lammerlaws and LammermoorsExcerpt from Arand, J.; Basher, L.; McIntosh, P.; Heads, M. 1991. Inventory of New
Zealand Soil Sites of International, National and Regional Importance. Part 1- South
Island and Southern Offshore Islands (1st Edition). New Zealand Society of Soil
Science Occasional Publication 1.
36
H44 550805
AREA(ha): 220 ALTITUDE(m): 480-676 RAINFALL(mm): 1300
TOPOGRAPHY: rolling to steep colluvial mountain slopes and tops PARENT MATERIAL: schist colluvium overlain
by loess (especially on lower parts of north facing slopes) VEGETATION: snow tussock/introduced grassland; red
tussock/rush-sedge grassland
SOILS: upland yellow-brown earths (Mahinerangi Waipori Nardoo Lammerlaw), organic soils (Bungtown), gley soils
(pioneer)
IMPORTANCE: I SIGNIFICANCE: (i) excellent altitudinal range of soils.(ii) internationally known scientific study
site (especially for hydrological studies). Has great potential for pedological studies of the long-term effects of converting
tussock grassland to exotic forest
VULNERABILITY: 1 MODIFICATIONSrrHREATS: some introduced grasses; very little grazing by sheep
TENURE: Crown land OWNERIMANAGER: Timberlands
CONTACT PERSON: Rick Jackson DATE OF INFORMATION: May 1991
REFERENCES: Hewitt (1982) Bonell et aI. (1990) Pearce et al. (1984) O'Loughlin et al. (1984)
(356) Lammerlaws and Lammermoors
REGIONAL/CITY COUNCIL(S): Otago ECOLOGICAL DISTRICTS(S): 68-D2 Waipori
LOCALITY and GRID REFERENCE: extends from Lammermoor Range to Lammerlaw Range and Lake Onslow
Region H43 535075
AREA(ha): 700 ALTITUDE(m): 650-1000 RAINFALL(mm): 600-llOoo
TOPOGRAPHY: rolling hiIlslopes with deep gullies (dissected peneplain) PARENT MATERIAL: loess and schist
.:;olluvium
SOILS: upland podzolised yellow-brown earths and podzols (Maungatua Lammerlaw), upland yellow-brown earths
(Teviot)
IMPORTANCE: 2 SIGNIFICANCE: (i) large area of soils under unmodified vegetation.(li) soils under sequences of
climate and vegetation.(Hi) soils have been characterised in detail.
VULNERABILITY: 1 MODIFICATIONSrrHREATS: grazed by sheep and cattle; 4WD roads; trailbike damage of
wetlands
TENURE: pastoral lease OWNERIMANAGER: Rocklands Station, Beaumont Station, Castle Dent Station and
Halwyn Station
CONTACT PERSON: Peter McIntosh DATE OF INFORMATION: August 1991
REFERENCES: McIntosh and Backholm (1981) McIntosh et al. (1983)
(357) Whisky Gully Scenic Reserve
REGIONAL/CITY COUNCIL(S): Otago ECOLOGICAL DISTRICTS(S): 68-D3 Tapanui
LOCALITY and GRID REFERENCE: 5 km SE of Tapanui G45231660
.
AREA(ha): 100 ALTITUDE(m): 300-700 RAINFALL(mm): 800
TOPOGRAPHY: steep colluvial mountainslopes PARENT MATERIAL: schist colluvium VEGETATION: beech
forest; broadleaved-podocarp/snow tussock forest; introduced grassland
SOILS: lowland yellow-brown earths (Tuapeka), upland yellow-brown earths (Waikaia), upland podzolised yellowJrown earths and podzols (Maungatua), organic soils (Kaherekoau), recent soils (Mataura)
IMPORTANCE: 3 SIGNIFICANCE: (i) contains a moderate range of soils, inclUding some under beech forest (which
was formerly more extensive).
VULNERABILITY: 3
TENURE: scenic reserve OWNERIMANAGER: Department of Conservation
CONTACT PERSON: Peter McIntosh DATE OF INFORMATION: April 1990
NOTES: Called "Tapanui Domain" in Allen (1978)
REFERENCES: New Zealand Soil Bureau (1968) Allen (1978)
(358) Goodwood Scenic Reserve
REGIONAL/CITY COUNCIL(S): Otago ECOLOGICAL DISTRICTS(S): 69-DI Waikouaiti
LOCALITY and GRID REFERENCE: 6 km SE of Palmerston J43347182
AREA(ha): 19 ALTITUDE(m): 30·70 RAINFALL(mm): 500
TOPOGRAPHY: rolling colluvial hills PARENT MATERIAL: schist loess over sandy limestone and sandstone
VEGETATION: podocarp-broadleaved/snow tussock forest; broadleaved forest; broadleaved-podocarp forest
SOILS: yellow-grey - yellow-brown earth intergrades (Warepa Karitane)
IMPORTANCE: 3 SIGNIFICANCE: (1) one of the only protected remnants of coastal podocarp/broadleaved forest
in Otago.
VULNERABILITY: 3
TENURE: scenic reserve OWNERIMANAGER: Department of Conservation
103
37
,
1
)
Appendix 3: Vascular Plant Species List for Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
Exotic species are denoted with an asterisk.
Species
Acaena novae-zelandiae
Acianthus sp.
Aciphylla aurea
Agrostis capillaris*
Anaphalioides bellidioides
Anthoxanthum odoratum*
Aporostylis bifolia
Astelia nervosa
Blechnum fluviatile
Blechnum montanum
Blechnum novae-zelandiae
Blechnum penna-marina
Bulbinella angustifolia
Caladenia lyallii
Cardamine debilis
Carex coriacea
Carex dissita
Carmichaelia petriei
Carpodetus serratus
Celmisia gracilenta
Celmisia prorepens
Celmisia semicordata
Cerastium fontanum*
Chionochloa rigida
Cirsium arvense*
Cirsium vulgare*
Coprosma cheesemanii
Coprosma ciliata
Coprosma colensoi
Coprosma foetidissima
Coprosma parviflora var. dumosa
Coprosma propinqua
Coprosma rhamnoides
Coprosma rigida
Coprosma rugosa
Cordyline australis
Coriaria sarmentosa
Corokia cotoneaster
Cortaderia richardii
Cyathea smithii
Cyathodes empetrifolia
Common name
Bidibidi
Orchid
Golden Spaniard
Browntop
Sweet vernal
Orchid
Mountain kiokio
Kiokio
Maori onion
Orchid
Bitter cress
Rautahi
Native broom
Marble leaf
Mouse-eared chickweed
Narrow-leaved snow
tussock
Californian thistle
Scotch thistle
Mikimiki
Cabbage tree
Tutu
Korokio
Toetoe
Soft tree fern
Plant type
Dicot herb
Monocot herb
Dicot herb
Grass
Dicot herb
Grass
Monocot herb
Tussock herb
Fern
Fern
Fern
Fern
Monocot herb
Monocot herb
Dicot herb
Sedge
Sedge
Shrub
Tree
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Grass
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Tree
Shrub
Shrub
Tussock grass
Fern
Subshrub
38
Cytisus scoparius*
Dactylis glomerata*
Digitalis purpurea*
Discaria toumatou
Dracophyllum longifolium
Dracophyllum prostratrum
Dracophyllum uniflorum
Drosera arcturi
Epilobium brunnescens
Epilobium ciliatum*
Erica lusitanica*
Festuca novae-zelandiae
Fuchsia colensoi
Fuchsia excorticata
Galium aparine*
Gaultheria antipoda
Gaultheria crassa
Gaultheria depressa
Gentiana sp.
Geranium microphyllum
Glyceria fluitans*
Grammitis billarieri
Griselinia littoralis
Gunnera monoica
Halocarpus bidwillii
Hebe odora
Hebe salicifolia
Helichrysum filicaule
Herpolirion novae-zelandiae
Hieracium lepidulum*
Hieracium pilosella*
Hieracium praealtum*
Histiopteris incisa
Holcus lanatus*
Hydrocotyle moschata
Hydrocotyle novae-zelandiae var.
montana
Hypochoeris radicata*
Hypolepis millefolium
Juncus articulatus*
Juncus distegus
Juncus effusus*
Juncus gregiflorus
Kelleria dieffenbachii
Kunzea ericoides
Lagenifera strangulata
Leptospermum scoparium
Leucopogon fraseri
Broom
Cocksfoot
Foxglove
Matagouri
Inaka
Turpentine shrub
Sundew
Willow herb
Spanish heath
Hard tussock
Fuchsia
Tree fuchsia
Cleavers
Fool’s beech
Gentian
Sweet grass
Broadleaf
Bog pine
Koromiko
Grass lily
Tussock hawkweed
Mouse-eared hawkweed
King devil
Water fern
Yorkshire fog
Catsear
Jointed rush
Soft rush
Kanuka
Manuka
Patotara
Shrub
Grass
Dicot herb
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Shrub
Grass
Shrub
Tree
Dicot herb
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Grass
Fern
Tree
Dicot herb
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Dicot herb
Monocot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Fern
Grass
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Fern
Rush
Rush
Rush
Rush
Dicot herb
Tree
Dicot herb
Shrub
Shrub
39
Leycesteria formosa*
Luzula leptophylla
Lycopodium australianum
Lycopodium fastigiatum
Lycopodium volubile
Melicytus alpinus
Mimulus guttatus*
Mimulus moschatus*
Muehlenbeckia australis
Muehlenbeckia complexa
Mycelis muralis*
Myosotis laxa subsp. caespitosa*
Nothofagus menziesii
Olearia arborescens
Olearia bullata
Ozothamnus leptophyllus
Pernettya macrostigma
Phormium cookianum
Pittosporum tenuifolium
Poa cita
Poa colensoi
Podocarpus hallii
Polystichum vestitum
Prunella vulgaris*
Pseudopanax crassifolius
Pseudowintera colorata
Pteridium esculentum
Pterostylis graminea
Ranunculus glabrifolius
Ranunculus reflexus
Ranunculus repens*
Raoulia subsericea
Rubus cissoides
Rubus schmidelioides
Rumex acetosella*
Sambucus nigra*
Sclerathus uniflorus
Senecio minimus
Sophora microphylla
Stellaria parviflora*
Taraxacum officinale*
Thelymitra formosa
Trifolium repens*
Ulex europaeus*
Viola cunninghamii
Wahlenbergia albomarginata
Himalayan honeysuckle
Porcupine shrub
Monkey musk
Musk
Pohuehue
Wall lettuce
Water forget-me-not
Silver Beech
Tauhinu
Mountain flax
Kohuhu
Silver tussock
Blue tussock
Hall’s totara
Prickly shield fern
Self heal
Lancewood
Peppertree
Bracken
Greenhood orchid
Creeping buttercup
Lawyer
Lawyer
Sheep’s sorrel
Elder
Fireweed
Kowhai
Chickweed
Dandelion
Sun orchid
White clover
Gorse
Harebell
Shrub
Rush
Fern
Fern
Fern
Shrub
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Vine
Vine
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Tree
Shrub
Shrub
Shrub
Subshrub
Tussock herb
Tree
Grass
Grass
Tree
Fern
Dicot herb
Tree
Shrub
Fern
Monocot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Vine
Vine
Dicot herb
Shrub
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Tree
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
Monocot herb
Dicot herb
Shrub
Dicot herb
Dicot herb
40
Appendix 4: Invertebrate Species List for Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
A large range of invertebrates was seen during the survey, not all of which were collected. These included a wide variety of spiders, including
orbweb species in both blocks and large mygalomorphs (funnelwebs, etc.) in forest remnants in the southern block. A large number of caddis
was collected, especially in the UV traps, but identifications are not yet available.
Species which have been identified or which were identified in the field without capture are listed below:
Odonata
(dragonflies,
damselflies)
Coenagrionidae
Xanthocnemis
zealandica
Petaluridae
Uropetala chiltoni
Corduliidae
Procordulia sp.
Dermaptera
(earwigs)
Parisolabis
tapanuiensis
Plecoptera
common
redcoat
damselfly
mountain
giant
dragonfly
native earwig
no specimens captured, identity assumed; widespread
species
observed along water race, north block; widespread
species
observed in southern block by T.J.; both species are
widespread
local species; good new record
(stoneflies)
Antarctoperlinae Zelandobius kuscheli
Zelandobius
uniramous
local species; low alpine shrubland/small streams, esp.
characteristic of Lammermoor Range
lowland to low alpine grassland streams; common in
Otago
41
Orthoptera
Acrididae
(grasshoppers,
crickets, etc.)
Sigaus campestris
Paprides dugdali
grasshopper
Sigaus australis
Coleoptera
(beetles)
Scarabaeidae
Carabidae
Pyronota festiva
Oregus aerus
Bembidium species
Tenebrionidae
Mimopeus opaculus
Philoneis species
Cerambycidae
Navomorpha sulcatum
Ochosternus
zealandicus
Elateridae
Mecoptera
(scorpionflies)
Nannochorista
philpotti
Diptera
(true flies; two-winged
flies)
Tipulidae
Gynoplistia n. sp.
manuka
beetle
carabid
carabid
darkling
beetle
southern montane/alpine species; common in good
grasslands
southern/eastern species; common in good grasslands
common and widespread in good quality grassland;
montane -alpine
widespread and common in grasslands
common and widespread in low alpine Otago
diurnal carabid, small and active; widespread species
longhorn
larvae eats dead wood, common and widespread in Otago
larvae eats dead wood, common and widespread in Otago
larvae eats dead wood of shrubs, common and widespread
in Otago
click beetle
widespread
NZ
scorpionfly
NZs only species; local in slow streams; good find
flightless cranefly; larvae probably associated with wet
silts
42
Leptotarsus
(Macromastix) cf.
fucatus
Limonia
(Dicranomyia) sp.
widespread through South Island beech forests, but may
be a species complex
bladderflies
common genus
common, widespread; larvae associated with wet
seepages
common, widespread; numerous throughout district at
time of survey
spider parasites; probably widespread; two specimens
caught, escaped
hoverfly
common native species, widespread
Zelandotipula novarae
Bibionidae
Dilophus nigrostigma
Acroceridae
Syrphidae
Oncodes sp.
Melangyna
novaezealandiae
Lepidoptera
(moths, butterflies)
Noctuidae
type locality Waipori; grassland species; local, occ.
common; good find
Aletia sollennis
Graphania nullifera
Graphania ustistriga
Graphania sequens
Graphania disjungens
Graphania fenwicki
Graphania paracausta
Graphania n.sp. cf
insignis
speargrass
moth
widespread on speargrass
common and widspread, lowland to montane, larvae on
herbs/ shrubs
uncommon & local noctuid, good find indicates good
habitat
common montane grassland noctuid
local and uncommon species, larvae on herbs in damp
grassland; eastern Otago endemic; excellent find
common early emerging grassland noctuid
local, eastern Otago endemic species; good find
43
Graphania mutans
Geometridae
Ichneutica ceraunias
Ichneutica notata
Rhapsa scotoscialis
Tmetolophota arotis
Austrocidaria
cedrinodes
alpine
cutworm
Epiphryne charidema
Helastia alba
Helastia corcularia
Helastia plumbea
Ischalis fortinata
Paranotoreas
brephosata
fern moth
orange
underwing
Pasiphila n.sp.
Xanthorhoe occulta
Tortricidae
Crambidae
Harmologa pontifica
Orocrambus
aethonellus
Eudonia philerga
Eudonia octophora
Eudonia torodes
Scoparia rotuella
grassmoth
extremely common and widespread, herb-feeding noctuid
widespread on Chionochloa in alpine/montane areas with
good habitat
local alpine grassland species; good find
common & widespread species, larvae on litter
common cutworm on Cortaderia etc.
Coprosma feeding species, common and widespread, low
alpine
widespread but local to shrubland; larvae on
Dracophyllum
widespread, but local, forest/ shrubland edge
widespread and common; larvae on mosses on rock
good find, uncommon in east, rocky areas
larvae on Polystichum; widespread forest/ grassland
species
diurnal species of grasslands; larvae on Epilobium;
widespread
southern species, diurnal, grasslands; larvae on flowers;
very good find
herb feeding, widespread but local
rare; shrublands - larvae on Hebe, few Otago localities;
excellent find
common species of wet grasslands
larvae on mosses on rock; widespread species
wetland areas; common & widespread species
widespread but local in grassland/ rocky areas; good find
widespread in montane grassland; larvae on Epilobium
44
Scoparia trapezophora
tussock
Argyrophenga
ringlet
Nymphalidae
antipodum
common
Lycaenidae
un-named butterfly
copper grp
southern blue
Zizina oxleyi
Hepialidae
porina moth
Wiseana mimica
Glyphipterigidae Glyphipterix barbata
Pterophoridae
plume moth
Platyptilia repletalis
Depressariidae
Eutorna caryochroa
local species of low alpine grasslands - good find
widespread species; many present, identified on site; not
collected.
larvae on Muehlenbeckia complexa; widespread but more
research required
common and widespread in grasslands; larvae on clovers
early species in south in montane zone; common locally
Chionochloa borer; commin in snowgrass areas
widespread and common; larvae on Plantago flowers
host unknown; good find; local species of grasslands
45
Appendix 5: Site details for Aquatic Fauna Survey.
Location
Waipori river
Trib of Waipori river
Waipori River
Waipori River
Pond
Beaumont River
Waipori River
Waipori Trib
Trustpower water race
Trib of Tuapeka
Bowlers Creek
G.P.S Reading
2250542 / 5487057
2250430/ 5487029
2250720 / 5490637
2250721 / 5490647
2251974/ 5491261
2249975 / 5491928
2249970/5492178
2250391/5491052
2249300/5487054
2249256/5487024
2247088/5479878
Species Recorded
Brown trout
No fish
Dusky galaxiid
Dusky galaxiid
No fish
Brown trout
Dusky galaxiid
No fish
Brown trout
No fish
Brown trout
46
Appendix 6: Federated Mountain Club Survey Report
x
47
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease
Field survey and assessment of significant recreational,
conservation and landscape values
Report prepared by Dr. Kelvin Lloyd
Federated Mountain Clubs of
New Zealand-(Inc.)
1
48
Table of contents
Scope of survey and infonnation sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.2
Description ofproperty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... ~ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Recreational values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
4·
Conservation values
Landscape values
6
Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998
6
RecoIllIllendations
7
Conclusions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Acknowledgements
,
,
8
Figures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-12
Maps showing prefened outcome of tenure review ..... " , . , . , ........• ,' •• 13-14
Scope of Survey and Information Sources
A field survey was undertaken to identify significant recreation and conservation values on Castle
Dent Pastoral Lease. This report describes the results of the survey and makes recommendations
as to how significant inherent values might be protected through the tenure review process under
the Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998.
Dr. Kelvin Lloyd is cunently employed as a plant ecologist by Landcare Research in Dunedin.
He has considerable experience of outdoorrecreation in Otago and a thorough knowledge of its
botany. A two-day field inspection ofthe property was undertaken in December 2003, with the
property being traversed on foot. This repOlt also draws on infOlmation provided in the Otago
Conservation Management Strategy.
Description of Property
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease is located near Lawrence? with access from State Highway 8. The
property lies within the WaipOli. Ecological District.
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease
The property compli.ses fwo separate blocks that differ considerably in their characteristics. The
lower block lies between 100-500 m altitude and is centred on a ridge that rises to the north
between Bowlers Creek and the Tuapeka River. Exotic pasture covers spurs and ridges and the
lower faces ofthis block, while stands ofkanuka occupy many of the gullies that cut into the
main ridge from either side. Several ofthese kanuka stands contain r~rnn®t~ of m.a.W~ Q~ech
forest (Fig. 1). The upper block is separated by a distance of 4 km from the lower block, and lies
between the Beaumont and Waipori Rivers, rising from 500 m to 1000 m elevation at its highest
point (Fig. 2), below the crest of the Lammerlaw Range (This upper property boundary is
relatively new, following acquisition ofthe high altitude tussock grassland portion of the property
by the Department of Conservation, which now manages it as conservation land). The upper
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49
block is also centred on a ridge with gullies on either side, but the landscape is much more
dissected than the lower block. The dominant vegetation cover is tussock grassland, which forms
dense stands across two thirds of the block, but has been been considerably modified by fire and
grazing in the south-western corner.
The recently established douglas fir plantations of Halwyn Forest occupy the gap between the
two blocks of Castle Dent. Established exotic plantation forests dominate areas below 650 m
altitude to the east of the property, although a finger of tussock grassland and exotic forest on the
ridge between the Tuapeka and Waipori Rivers is managed as conservation land (Glendhu
Forest). A large area of tussock grassland abutting the eastern side of the upper block,
incorporating parts of the Waipori River and Deep Creek, was recently purchased from Halwyn
Station and is now managed as conservation land. New exotic forest plantations have been
established in many areas to the west, although the remnant beech forests of Bowlers Creek
Scenic Reserve (Fig. 3) serve as a small buffer at lower elevations on this side. The lower block
of Castle Dent Pastoral Lease can currently be seen as an island of farmland, with pockets of
native forest, embedded in a sea of exotic plantation forestry. Gorse and broom are problem
weeds in areas of steeper country at lower altitudes on either side of the property, except where
there is a cover of sClUb or forest.
Access
The property is easily accessible from State Highway 8 some 7 km west of the township of
Lawrence. A formed public road suitable for 4WD vehicles is centred on the main ridge system
and runs from SH 8 to the top of the property. Access is also possible along Gardiners Track, a
public road that lUns through the Glendhu conservation land mentioned in the previous
paragraph, meeting the southern boundary of the upper block of Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
Recreational Values
The recent (March 2003) creation of the Te Papanui Conservation Park, which encompasses
tussock grasslands centred on the Lammermoor and Lammerlaw Ranges, is likely to stimulate
recreational interest in the area in and around Castle Dent Pastoral Lease.
Currently, most recreation on the property appears to centre on the upper block, which has a
greater sense of remoteness than the lower block and is dominated by native vegetation. A small
comfortable 2-bunk hut with a fireplace and water supply shows evidence of regular visitation by
people from the local area. The area does not appear to be accessed by those walking in on foot,
due to the relatively long distance (10 km and uphill) from S.H. 8. Recreation includes 4WD,
horseback and mountain biking trips that traverse the public road through the property. The
opportunity for pig and deer hunting in the gullies on either side is also valued. Use of the
property for back country skiing appears under-utilised, but this area could provide a site for it
that is very accessible from Dunedin. Recreational attractions include the scenic landscape of
extensive tussock grassland at the top of the property, and beyond it to the north. Tributaries of
the Waipori River form small gorges (Fig 4) and the dissected tussock grassland landscape on the
eastern side of the block (Fig. ) is particularly scenic and peaceful. Apart from in the southeast,
most of the tussock grassland is free from spaniard (Aciphylla) species, allowing pleasant
3
50
walking among the tussocks. The upper gorge of the Waipori River is a dramatic natural feature
on the eastern boundary (Fig. 5). Half way up the block, an historic water race traverses from the
Beaumont River to tributaries of the Waipori River (Fig. 6). This water race is currently being
upgraded with the intention of providing extra water to the Waipori River for use in generating
_ electricity from Lake Mahinerangi. A formed track beside this race on the western side, in
conjunction with a 4WD track leading down to the intake structure, could provide an interesting
round trip to the Beaumont River for mountain bikers. Two derelict huts are present on the
Beaumont River faces. From the top of the property there are panoramic views from Kaka Point
on the Otago coast to the Blue Mountains, Whitecomb Range, Garvie Mountains and Old Man
Range.
The lower block appears to be used only for access, or for hunting at the permission of the lessee.
Bowlers Creek Scenic Reserve, which borders the western side of the lower block, does not
.
appear to attract much usage (with the exception of hunting) as it is not visible from S.H. 8,
contains no tracks and access is not indicated. There would be considerable potential to increase
recreational use in this area, which is not currently perceived as a recreational destination by
those living outside the local area. Track development could provide an accessible day walk
among the natural forest, shrubland, rock outcrop and river communities within the Bowlers
Creek gorge. The Tuapeka River could be added to such a trip by following legal roads that cross
the main ridge of the lower block (see Map 2).
Conservation Values
Lower block
The conservation values of the lower block of Castle Dent lie in the remnants of beech forest and
extensive kanuka shrublands that occupy the gulleys dissecting the block, and occur on the steep
faces of the Tuapeka River and Bowlers Creek. The larger stands of kanuka tend to retain
remnants of mature beech forest within their core areas. In some areas, small shrubby wetlands
are present in shallow gullies within the kanuka stands.
Many of the kanuka stands allow entry of stock and the diversity of native species tends to be low
at the shrubland margins, with a sparse ground cover of herbs, shrubs and ferns. Much bare
ground is present. However this changes with increasing distance into the kanuka forest, as use
by stock declines. Broadleaved forest species start to be seen (mainly as seedlings) and a greater
range and cover of native herb, sedge, fern and shrub species. Of particular note are the presence
of the unusual cut-leaved parsley fern (Botrychium biforme) and a diverse range of ground
orchids in the genera Corybas and Pterostylis. These understorey species are typical of relatively
dry, fertile lowland forests in the coastal Otago area. In damp forest gulleys, the presence of
palatable tree saplings of broadleaf and three finger, as well as hen and chicken fern, testify that
stock seldom penetrate this far.
A significant record from one area of kanuka shrubland was the greenhood orchid, Pterostylis
foliata. While not appearing on the most recent rare and threatened plant lists, Moore & Edgar
(1976) described the South Island distribution of this species as "Records few". More recently, P.
foliata was described as "rare in most regions" by St George (1999), who cited early (1890s)
4
51
collections from several sites in coastal and inland Otago. At none of these could he find
specimens more recently. The nearest of these sites to Castle Dent Pastoral Lease are Milburn
and Tuapeka Mouth. No records south of the Kakanui Ecological Region appear to have been
made of this species in the last 30 years, thus the Castle Dent population may represent the
current southern limit of this taxon.
- In core areas of the larger kanuka stands, mature remnants of silver beech signify the original
dominant vegetation cover of these low altitude sites, and are little different in structure to larger
areas of beech forest in the region, such as in the nearby Bowlers Creek Scenic Reserve and at the
Blue Mountains. It seems very likely that silver beech forest would eventually return to
dominance over what is presently kanuka shrubland, given freedom from fire, logging and
grazing by stock.
The areas of native shrubland and forest that remain on the lower block of Castle Dent Pastoral
Lease are important remnants of an ecosystem that has largely been eradicated from lowland
Otago. The remnants of beech forest, while small, have potential for increase in size, and together
with those present in Bowlers Creek Scenic Reserve, could provide one of the most accessible
sites in which to experience a beech forest ecoystem in eastern Otago.
Upper block
Dense narrow-leaved snow tussock grassland covers northern and eastern areas of the upper
block. The grassland in the higher parts of this area has a taller stature, which along with the
presence of occasional shrubs of bog pine, appears to reflect a lower frequency of fire. Small fens
and bogs are common in shallow gullies, where sedges, sundews and small native buttercups are
present. Celmisia semicordata, the largest alpine daisy, is common in the upper part of the block,
but absent at lower elevations. Here the tussock grassland is shorter in stature, but still v.ery
dense. Species from several orchid genera (Aporostylis, Pterostylis, Thelymitra, Caladenia and
Microtis) were commonly seen, and spectacular patches of the sky lily (Herpolirion novaezelandiae) were also observed. The eastern boundary of the upper block roughly follows the
upper Waipori River. The lower part of the Waipori River within this boundary forms a gorge in
which many rock outcrops are present, along with regenerating shrublands (dominated by
manuka) and several small remnants of beech forest (Figs 5 & 7). These areas add greatly to the
habitat diversity of the upper block. Smaller gorges also create a variety of habitats along the
western tributaries of the Waipori River that lie within the property (Fig. 4), and are probably
important for native lizards. Streams appear pristine and would provide good habitats for native
fish such as galaxiids.
In the southwest comer of the upper block and on faces of the Beaumont River below the derelict
huts (grid reference G44: 896904) recent burning and grazing has caused considerable
modification to the tussock grassland. Tussock cover is sparse, patchy and low in stature, and
many tussocks are dead, with exotic pasture grasses dominating. In general, the Beaumont River
side of the block has suffered more modification than the Waipori River side.
5
52
Wildlife
The following native bird species were observed during the field inspection.
Upper block: chaffinch, bellbird, blackbird, falcon, grey warbler, harrier, magpie, paradise duck,
redpoll, skylark, starling and yellowhammer.
Lower block: bellbird, blackbird, black backed gull, chaffinch, grey warbler, magpie,
oystercatcher, redpoll, rifleman, spur winged plover, thrush, yellowhammer.
Weeds
The upper parts of the upper block are remarkably weed-free. Small areas of mouse-ear
hawkweed (Hieracium pilosella) are occasionally present at lower altitudes on sunny faces, but
of greater concern is the frequent presence of tussock hawkweed (H. lepidulum) in southeastern
areas of the block. Occasional trees of Pinus contorta are also present in this area, and should be
controlled. The exotic daisy, cats ear (Hypochaeris radicata) was common in the tussock
grassland, but is of little ecological significance. Gorse is a serious problem on land adjacent to
the western boundary of the block, on the western side of the Beaumont River, but has largely
been prevented from invading onto the property (Fig. 8). One outlying gorse plant was observed
on a fenceline at grid reference H44: 521 928 and the same fence has broken wires at grid
reference H44: 525 922.
Landscape Values
The upper block has considerable landscape value as an area of extensive tussock grassland on
the slopes of the Lammerlaw Range. The lack of trees and buildings in this area contributes
greatly to its visual appeal. The dissected topography of sinuous spurs and incised gorges
provides a rich texture to this landscape, which is highlighted in partly cloudy conditions.
The landscape appeal of the lower block lies in its freedom from monocultural plantation
forestry, and in the mosaic of pasture spurs and kanukalbeech-forested gullies.
Crown Pastoral Land Act 1998 (CPLA)
Part 2, Section 24 of the CPLA describes the process for tenure review of pastoral leases and has
the objects of:
(a) To:
(i) Promote the management of reviewable land in a way that is ecologically sustainable:
(ii) Subject to subparagraph (i), enable reviewable land capable of economic use to be
freed from the management constraints (direct and indirect) resulting from its tenure
under the reviewable instrument; and
(b) To enable the protection of significant inherent values of reviewable land: (i) By the creation of protective mechanisms; or (preferably)
(ii) By the restoration of land to full Crown ownership and control; and
6
53
(c) Subject to paragraphs (a) and (b), to make easier(i) The securing of public access to and enjoyment of reviewable land; and
(ii) The freehold disposal of reviewable land.
The following sections of this report are guided by these CPLA objectives in making
recommendations for areas to be protected under the tenure review process.
Recommendations
Areas tobe protected
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease is a significant property due to the inclusion of both high altitude
tussock grasslands and lowland areas where remnants of native forest are present. Many
significant inherent recreation, conservation and landscape values are present. The best method of
protecting the significant inherent values of this land will be restoration to full Crown ownership
and control under Section 24(b)(ii) of the CPLA.
In the upper block, the bulk of the land with significant inherent values should be protected by
returning to full Crown ownership and control, under management of the Department of
Conservation, all the land in the northern and eastern portions of this area (Map 1). This would
extend the link between the existing Olendhu conservation land, and the Te Papanui
Conservation Park, which provides a fully protected altitudinal sequence of natural vegetation
from 600 m elevation to > 11 00 m on the Lammerlaw Range. In addition, the headwater
catchments of the Waipori River would become entirely protected, given that those on the eastern
side are already managed for conservation. The formed road running through the centre of the
block should be included within the protected portion to provide for continued public access.
Retention of the hut at grid reference 044: 499 865 within the area to be returned to full Crown
ownership and control would continue to allow for public use of this facility, and enjoyment of
the area.
Most of the remaining land on the southwestern side of the upper block has been heavily
modified for pastoral use and freehold disposal of this land would be consistent with the
objectives in Section 24 (a)(ii) and {c)(ii) of the CPLA.
Finding a clear-cut boundary between land with significant inherent values and land with
economic use is more difficult in the lower block due to the pattern of kanuka/beech forest in the
gullies and pasture on the intervening spurs. Protection of the forest remnants must incorporate
exclusion of stock: protected areas will need to be securely fenced. The areas of kanuka forest on
steep faces above Bowlers Creek should be returned to full Crown ownership and control and
managed as conservation land, as should the majority of the forested gulleys on the Bowlers
Creek side. All of these areas have significant inherent value as sites for fertile lowland
indigenous forest, which is rare in the region. These could be added to the existing Bowlers
Creek Scenic Reserve. Likewise, kanuka stands on the steep faces above the Tuapeka River
should also be returned to full Crown ownership and control, as well as one large face of kanuka
and beech forest on a gulley leading to the Tuapeka River. These areas have limitations for
pastoral use, and the latter would likely undergo conversion to exotic plantation forest if not
7
54
subject to a protective mechanism. It may be appropriate to protect an additional, smaller remnant
of kanuka/beech forest by use of a protective covenant under Section 24(b)(i) of the CPLA. Such
a covenant should provide for fencing to exclude stock, and should prohibit fire, and planting of
exotic trees. The indicative boundaries for these areas as indicated on Map 2 would protect all the
kanuka stands which contain remnants of beech forest, allowing eventual succession to beech
forest throughout these stands. In some cases, areas of pasture will need to be included within the
proposed conservation land to allow for practical fencelines. These -can be expected to quickly
return to kanuka forest cover, given the vigour that this species shows elsewhere on the property.
Some areas of less-diverse kanuka forest are present on the remaining land, which is generally
suitable for pastoral farming and could be freeholded. Existing fences can be used to define
boundaries in many cases.
Access
Access is largely provided for by existing public roads. Formed roads provide direct public
access through the centre of both blocks. The lower block also has unformed legal roads which
give access to Bowlers Creek and the Tuapeka River. These should be retained, as they provide
potential for recreational access, and would allow a round trip between these two rivers. In the
upper block, public access along the water race on the Beaumont River side of the block should
be provided for. Additionally, where the formed road differs in alignment from the legal road, it
should be ensured that the formed road has legal status as a public road. Marginal strips must be
laid off along any parts of Bowlers Creek, the Beaumont River and the Tuapeka River that fall
inside freeholded land. The location of the property on State Highway 8, just over an hour's drive
from Dunedin, would justify the provision of recreational facilities to allow a day walk
incorporating Bowlers Creek and the Tuapeka River.
COI1c1usions
Castle Dent Pastoral Lease is a very accessible property that contains a roughly equal balance of
areas of significant inherent value, and areas that could freeholded for economic use. Carrying
out the recommendations of this report would enable protection of significant recreation,
conservation and landscape values present, and eventually could allow for a new public walking
opportunity from State Highway 8.
References
Moore, L.B. and Edgar, E. (1976). Flora of New Zealand. Volume II. Indigenous Tracheophyta,
Monocotyledones except Gramineae. Government Printer, Wellington.
St George, I. (1999). Nature guide to New Zealand native orchids. Random House New Zealand,
Auckland.
Acknowledgements
Ray Macdonald, the lessee, granted access to the property to enable the survey, and was very
helpful in providing transport to the top of the property.
8
55
56
57
58
59

Castle Dent - Land Information New Zealand

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